Goodrich Castle - English Heritage

Goodrich stands majestically on a wooded hill commanding the passage of the River Wye into the picturesque valley of Symonds Yat. The castle was begun in the late 11th century, by the English thegn Godric who gave it his name.Goodrich boasts one of the most complete sets of medieval domestic buildings surviving in any English castle.

A new visitor centre, cafe and shop opened in 2007. The visitor centre features a small exhibition which explores life at the castle from its origins in the late 11th century until its dramatic fall in 1646, and includes Civil War artefacts found at the site. The smart new cafe has lovely views of the picturesque surroundings, and serves a fine selection of light refreshments made from locally sourced Herefordshire ingredients.

Discounts

Resources listed here may include websites, bookable tours and workshops, books, loan boxes and more. You may need to scroll down or click on headers to see them all.

Face to face resources

Meet a Medieval Soldier Discovery Visit

Venture into history with a costumed guide on a tour to fire the imagination. How did armies attack the castle and how did those inside keep them out? Discover medieval food, living conditions (including toilets!) medieval surgery and a glimpse into the dark world of crime and punishment.Duration: 1 1/4 hoursKey Stage: 2, 3, History

How to obtain

Call 0121 625 6864 to book a 1¼ hour session, available from January 28–30, Tuesdays and Thursdays in March, June 15–10 2009. Price £60 per group of up to 30 pupils until April 2009, £75 per group after April 2009. Visit http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/server/show/nav.19506 for more information.

Face to face resources

Medieval Domestic Life Discovery Visit

An interactive guided tour - participate as you learn about the feudal system and how it affected everyone, from the farmer to the lord. Investigate medieval food and serve a feast to William Marshall, lord of the castle.Duration: 1 1/2 hoursKey Stage: 2, History

How to obtain

Call 0121 625 6864 to book a 1½ hour session, available every weekday during term time. Price £60 per group of up to 30 pupils until April 2009, £75 per group after April 2009. Visit http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/server/show/nav.19506 for more information.

Face to face resources

The Life and Times of Lady Joan de Valance Discovery Visit

This medieval Lady guides you around the castle exploring its history, the reasons for its location and the lives of the people within its impressive walls.Duration: 1 1/2 hoursKey Stage: 3, History

How to obtain

Call 0121 625 6864 to book a 1½ hour session, available every weekday during term time. Price £60 per group of up to 30 pupils until April 2009, £75 per group after April 2009. Visit http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/server/show/nav.19506 for more information.

Website

Telephone

01600 890538

All information is drawn from or provided by the venues themselves and every effort is made to ensure it is correct. Please remember to double check opening hours with the venue concerned before making a special visit.